- any plant of the genus Valeriana, as the common valerian V. officinalis, having small, fragrant flowers of white, lavender, or pink and a root that is used medicinally.
- a drug consisting of or made from the root, formerly used as a nerve sedative and antispasmodic.
- Roman emperor 253–60.
- any of various Eurasian valerianaceous plants of the genus Valeriana, esp V. officinalis, having small white or pinkish flowers and a medicinal root
- a sedative drug made from the dried roots of V. officinalis
- Latin name Publius Licinius Valerianus. died 260 ad, Roman emperor (253–260): renewed persecution of the Christians; defeated by the Persians
